Paddy Pimblett, affectionately known as `The Baddy,` has carved a remarkable path in the Ultimate Fighting Championship`s notoriously competitive lightweight division. Hailing from Liverpool, his charismatic persona and explosive fighting style have quickly endeared him to a global fanbase. Once dismissed by some as merely a “gimmick fighter,” Pimblett has, through a series of compelling victories, silenced his critics and propelled himself into the conversation for a coveted UFC title shot. His years-long, often heated rivalry with the newly crowned lightweight king, Ilia Topuria, has only intensified speculation, suggesting a collision course for the championship belt.
A Peer`s Candid Assessment: Beneil Dariush Weighs In
However, not everyone within the upper echelons of the lightweight roster shares the same optimistic view of Pimblett`s immediate championship prospects. Veteran contender Beneil Dariush, a fighter known for his well-rounded skill set and analytical approach, and currently ranked just below Pimblett, has offered a rather unflattering assessment of `The Baddy`s` chances against Topuria. Dariush, never one to mince words, was notably skeptical when asked about Pimblett posing a genuine threat to the reigning champion.
Dariush`s skepticism is rooted in a technical breakdown of the potential matchup. “No, not particularly,” Dariush reportedly stated, when questioned on Pimblett`s potential as a threat. “I honestly can’t see where he would be a threat.” He elaborated on his concerns, highlighting what he perceives as significant disadvantages for Pimblett in key areas. In the striking department, Dariush suggested Pimblett would find himself “in a lot of danger.” While acknowledging Pimblett`s proficiency in grappling—if he successfully secures a takedown—Dariush cast serious doubt on that crucial prerequisite.
The Takedown Dilemma: Topuria`s Defensive Prowess
The crux of Dariush`s argument against Pimblett`s ground game lies squarely with Ilia Topuria`s formidable defensive wrestling. “Do I think he can get a takedown on Ilia? I don’t know,” Dariush pondered, before asserting, “because from what I’ve seen and heard about Ilia, he has fantastic wrestling and his takedown defence is world class.” This assertion paints a challenging picture for Pimblett, suggesting that his most likely path to victory via grappling would be severely hampered by Topuria`s proven ability to keep fights standing or quickly neutralize ground threats. It`s a technical obstacle that, in Dariush`s eyes, seems insurmountable for `The Baddy` at this stage.
The “Protection” Claim: UFC`s Strategic Matchmaking?
Beyond the pure technical analysis, Dariush also voiced frustration regarding the UFC`s matchmaking philosophy, implying a strategic `protection` of certain rising stars. Dariush revealed his desire to face Pimblett at UFC 322, given their close proximity in the rankings and the obvious competitive implications. However, the promotion reportedly dismissed the idea, citing Pimblett`s unavailability. This led Dariush to a more general, and perhaps cynical, conclusion:
“In some cases, they protect some of their guys,” he claimed. “They don’t want me to spoil some of these guys.”
This sentiment touches upon a long-standing debate within mixed martial arts: the delicate balance between competitive integrity and commercial viability. Dariush suggests that unless the UFC is compelled to give him a top-ranked opponent—perhaps one without the massive drawing power of a `Baddy`—they prefer to shield their emerging, marketable talents from potentially career-derailing encounters with formidable “spoilers” like himself. It’s a pragmatic approach for a business, ensuring their investments mature, but one that can leave other deserving contenders feeling sidelined, observing the chessboard from the outside.
The Road Ahead for `The Baddy`
As the speculation around a Pimblett vs. Topuria title fight continues to simmer, Beneil Dariush`s blunt assessment adds a layer of stark reality to the fan-driven hype. While `The Baddy` has certainly earned his respect and a place among the lightweight elite, the path to undisputed championship status appears fraught with highly technical challenges, not least the formidable skills of Ilia Topuria, and perhaps, the strategic chess moves of the UFC itself. For Paddy Pimblett, proving Dariush wrong would not just be a victory; it would be a definitive statement cementing his place at the absolute pinnacle of the sport, transcending both fan adoration and competitor skepticism.
Rupert Hartwell